Smooth implementation of Article 18 exit permit; travelers express satisfaction

On the first day of enforcement of the new exit permit requirement for private sector expatriates under Article 18 procedures at the Kuwait International Airport were carried out efficiently and without delays or complications.

Travelers praised the smooth process and expressed relief that their departure was not hindered, thanks to clear procedures and well-prepared personnel from the Ministry of Interior.

Al-Rai monitored passport control operations at Terminal 1, where officers processed travelers’ departures within minutes. The system verified electronic approvals from employers, eliminating the need to present printed permits in most cases.

Travelers reported that passport stamping took less than a minute once it was confirmed that no travel restrictions applied.

Authorities had anticipated potential challenges and took proactive steps to ensure a smooth experience. Officers handled even those unfamiliar with the new system professionally, guiding them through the process without disruption.

Passengers expressed appreciation for the efficient system and commended the professionalism of passport security personnel, emphasizing that the new rule balanced the rights of both workers and employers without infringing on personal freedoms.

Colonel Yousef Al-Hawlan, head of the Private Aviation Ports Department, confirmed to Al-Rai that an electronic link was established between the Public Authority for Manpower and the Ports Administration.

This allowed passport control officers to see exit permits directly in the system, without requiring printed documents. An emergency team was also formed to step in if any technical issues arose.

Al-Hawlan added that while many residents still brought printed copies of the exit permit, they were not needed unless there was a technical glitch.

In those rare instances, the permit could be shown on a mobile device and verified using a barcode scanner. The exit permit is valid for one week from the date of approval, and the process only takes a few minutes if the employer’s approval is already registered in the system.

On the first day alone, around 20,000 travelers passed through the airport, the majority of whom were private sector workers. The exit permit requirement does not apply to dependents or domestic workers under Article 20.

In coordination with the Public Authority of Civil Aviation and airline companies, measures were put in place to ensure boarding passes are not issued until exit permits are confirmed in the system. This prevents congestion at passport counters and ensures travelers don’t risk missing their flights.

For workers who face difficulty using the system or mobile applications, Al-Hawlan advised using the “Sahel” or “Ashal” apps to obtain the permit or having their sponsor complete the process on their behalf. Once issued, the permit is automatically available at passport counters for verification.

Exit Permit Statistics:

• 35,000 private sector workers have obtained exit permits.
• From June 12 to 29, 22,000 applications were submitted.
• On June 30 alone, 13,000 applications were recorded.
• Only one complaint was received and successfully addressed.

  This initial rollout signals strong coordination between the Ministry of Interior and labor authorities, providing a promising outlook for continued smooth implementation.